The past weeks have been filled with pride for Canada due to the Olympics. I feel I must tell you that I did not watch the Olympics, I don't like very many winter sports and I don't feel the need to watch something I won't enjoy. However, all the drama over the Vancouver Olympics has made me think a lot about Canada and what it means to me to be Canadian.
I always used to be proud of my citizenship, proud of my country and proud of what it stood for. The more I learn about Canada's past, present and future the more I doubt my country. I used to brag that I was Canadian, that we were the best country and I would take offence if someone insulted Canada. I once got in an argument with a
friend because she would not stand for the National Anthem. At that point in my life I believed in standing for
Oh Canada! because of what it stood for, a country that fought for it's rights, that helped others and did good. Now I realize how naive I was, I don't have pride in my country.
To many, being Canadian means; freedom of speech, unity, multiculturalism, friendship, justice, safety, decency, honour, etc.
To me, being Canadian means; infringing rights, denying aid, turning a blind eye, racism, ignorance of heritage, secrets, etc.
The Olympics put Native Americans on everything, which should be done since it's their land, but was it for the right reasons? Are they trying to show the world that Native Americans are a huge part of Canadian culture? In reality Native Americans are a minority, the government shoves them in a corner and many people believe they don't belong here.
I think too many Canadians, and any other citizens in regard to their country, are patriotic for no reason, they do it just to do it. Should we really be proud of our athletes when we are not proud of another country's? Is it really our country that made them as they are? Could they not have turned out the same somewhere else? Could they not have immigrated here or there?
The land is breath taking, from coast to coast there is something to be in awe of. Is it the physical land that makes up a country? Or the people who fill it? I think it's the people who fill it, their decisions, actions and what they do with the land they are on. I think there are many beautiful people who are living in Canada and I do believe Canadians are very friendly but I think that trend is dying out.
What does being Canadian mean to you? And I want details "_______ because...", I want to know what has made you proud because I do think people should take pride in their country. However, I think they should do it for a reason and not because it is expected.
**I could go much more in detail of many of these things but I don't wish this to be rant.
